Don’t Overpack – Keep it Simple and Sweet!
Dropping off your child at college is a big moment, and it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and activities. Steph from Shine.FM shared her experience, saying, “This was me last year, this time dropping my freshman off, and it's not easy. It can be emotional, but also combined with a lot of stress because there's a lot of last-minute things.” Both Brian and Steph agree that while it might be tempting to pack everything but the kitchen sink, it’s better to keep things simple. “Don't fill up a U-Haul,” Steph warned. “Dorm rooms are only a certain size. They're tiny!” She suggests sticking to the checklist provided by the school and letting your student take the lead on what they need to bring.
Every child is different, and that means their needs for college will be different too. Steph explains, “My firstborn, my Ella, there was no way that I was ever going to lead this process.” It's important for parents to let their children make decisions about their new space. "If we're the ones organizing it all, then they're not even going to know where everything is at," Steph pointed out.
Don't Forget the Little Things and Big Hugs!
While it's essential to pack the basics, Brian and Steph agree that sending a little reminder of home can go a long way. "It’s always important to bring a reminder of home, maybe even like a family picture," Brian said, adding, "Or maybe a favorite mug or blanket." These small touches can help your child feel connected to home even when they’re miles away.
And when it’s time to say goodbye, make sure it’s a memorable one. Brian confessed, “When I was a freshman and I got dropped off at college, I did not hug my mom goodbye.” Steph quickly asked, "Do you still hear about it?" Brian laughed and replied, “Are you kidding? Yeah, to this day!” So, his advice is simple: “Hug your mama.” That hug can be a comforting memory for both parents and students, especially when homesickness kicks in later.
Dropping off a child at college is a big milestone, but with some planning and a lot of love, it can be a smooth transition for everyone involved. And as Brian and Steph suggest, the most important thing is to let your child find their own way: "The most important lesson we teach our kids is three simple words: Figure it out."
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